Skin Facts
Microdermabrasion facts
IPL Permanent hair reduction
IPL Photo rejuvenation
Glycolic acid
The Rose Otto we are using
Botox facts
Restylane facts

Skin facts

Microdermabrasion facts

What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a mini procedure that involves the skin being "sandblasted" by aluminum oxide crystals, baking soda, salt or corn cob granules to remove the stratum corneum (top) layer of the skin; dead skin cells.  Microdermabrasion also promotes the production of new cells in the basal (deepest) layer of the dermis.  This procedure may not give everyone the same results but if you have the money it is a nice treat and requires no down time.  It can clean your pores incredibly and hinder any future breaks outs if used on a regular basis.  Microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen net working to further even out skin texture and appearance.

Are You a Candidate For Microdermabrasion?
The best candidates for microdermabrasion are individuals with acne prone and blotchy skin, small scars, rhytides, keratoses, large pores, milia, or sebaceous hyperplasia.  If you have sun damage or uneven texture and would like to improve the condition of your skin, you may be a good candidate for Microdermabrasion. 
Microdermabrasion is not recommended for those who have active keloids, undiagnosed lesions, recent herpes outbreaks, warts, active, weeping acne (stages 3 to 4), active rosacea, unstable diabetes or auto-immune system disorders.

Does Microdermabrasion Hurt?
Microdermabrasion does not hurt although it may sting a little around the eye area.  The patient normally works up to a level as they go to increase the penetration to the skin.  Your skin may feel a little hot and appear a little pink for the first day.

You should be perfectly fine that night.  Although really intense micro- dermabrasion treatments may leave you pink for several days.  The technician can turn down the controls if the suction or level of the blast is too strong for you.

What to Expect During a Treatment?
Patients have attributed the sensation of a microdermabrasion treatment to a slight windburn. Although depending upon the level that you wish to reach the discomfort is usually quite minimal, if at all.  The treatments typically last 20 to 30 minutes for the face, if your treatment includes the neck and upper chest area, it may last up to an hour.
A normal course of microdermabrasion treatments varies between 4 to 8 at approximately 2 week intervals.  It is recommended that you schedule an additional treatment every 1 to 3 months to maintain your skin in excellent condition.  Most patients actually feel and see a difference just after one or two treatments but schedule additional treatments to increase this improvement.

After The Treatment

• A rehydrating toner, moisturizer and sunscreen is applied to your skin prior to leaving the spa.
• Some redness is expected after a treatment, however this is not likely to persist more than a few hours.  The sensation of having a mild windburn or sunburn will also pass after a few hours.  Applying a high quality moisturizer to re-hydrate the skin at this point will help.
• Avoid direct sun exposure for 7 days after a treatment. We do stress the importance of using a high quality sun protectant product as well as minimizing sun exposure.  Exposure to UV radiation is one of the key factors in speeding the skin aging process.
• Avoid Alpha-Hydroxy Acid, products and skin exfoliation scrubs for 72 hours both before and after a treatment

Permanent Hair removal – Ellipse IPL

What areas of the body can you treat?
All areas, men and women, except mucous membrane (eg. inside the nose) and within the boney orbit of the eye. From facial hair to chests, arms, underarms, bellies, bikini lines, legs - you grow it, we'll remove it!!

Is it safe?
Yes. You will be treated by one of our fully trained and experienced Beauty Therapists. Every new client fills in a comprehensive form enabling us to assess if there is any underlying reason why you should not be treated. For example, if you are very suntanned we may advise you to stay out the sun and return in a few weeks time. Your skin type is carefully assessed and a test patch performed on each area before it is treated for the first time. This enables us to ensure that your skin will not react negatively and also assists us in choosing the optimal fluence for your treatments - high enough to be effective and low enough not to cause any side effects. Some skin types might be too dark to avoid damage if treated but we avoid this problem by testing you first. Very importantly, rest assured that the type of light emitted is totally different to sun light and is not carcinogenic (Cancer causing). On the contrary, IPL is used to correct non-cancerous sun damage (see photorejuvenation below.)

Is it Painful?
There is always some sensation involved in permanent hair removal but IPL is the gentlest form of treatment available. The hair is shaved prior to treatment to prevent the skin being exposed to unnecessary heat. Cooling packs can be used during treatment and a soothing balm applied after. There may be a slight residual redness or tenderness but this will disappear quickly.

What are the side effects?
As mentioned, a slight redness may be apparent after treatment, but this usually fades within hours. If the skin is not protected from the sun, pigmentation or depigmentation marks can result. The good news is that, though it might take up to a few months, these will usually fade. Over treatment is rare but the pigments marks that result from this will also fade.

What is the difference between laser and IPL?
IPL works in the same ways as laser but it is an updated technology and emits a broader spectrum of light so is very effective at lower fluences (amount of heat). This makes it much more gentle on the skin than laser, reducing discomfort, redness and any possibility of over treating. IPL is also faster, so easier to fit into a busy schedule. Like laser, the skin should not be tanned before or during treatment as this could cause pigmentation marks.

Electrolysis is also permanent hair reduction. Why should I change?
Treatment with IPL is much faster. The electrolysis process treats each hair one at a time but with IPL the entire area covered by the beam of light is treated. There is no piercing of the skin with IPL and this eliminates chances of infection and scarring. And of course, no more ingrowns!

Waxing Treatments cost less than IPL treatments. Why should I change?
Reason no.1 is that your course of IPL treatments will result in long term hair reduction - no more regular depilation. IPL is also not painful like waxing, particularly in sensitive areas such as bikini lines, and skin reaction and rashes will be a thing of the past. Best of all, no infections and scarring from ingrown hairs!

Why do I need more than one treatment?
Hair has 3 growing stages, the Anagen or active growing phase, Catagen or resting phase and Telogen, the end phase before the old hair falls out and is replaced by the new one. It is in the Anagen phase that hair is most successfully treated because this is when it is attached to the bulb containing the growth cells, which we wish to destroy. All hairs treated will fall out within a week or two allowing those in the Catagen and Telogen stages to reach Anagen by the next treatment (3 to 6 weeks) and those follicles in the Anagen stage that were only damaged and not disabled, to be treated again. Repeated treatments ensure that all hair follicles have maximum exposure to the IPL at the right time.

How many treatments will I need?
That depends on your hair colour, skin type, the area to be treated and, most important, the effect you desire. Because the skin, like the hair, contains melanin, we take care not to cause it any damage. Generally, the paler the skin the higher the fluence that can be used so the fewer treatments you will need. Conversely, darker skins will need to be treated on a lower fluence so might require a few extra treatments. An average figure for permanent removal of hair, from the legs for example, would be 4 to 6 treatments. We do not tie you to a specific number of treatments; rather you decide when you have achieved the desired effect.

Once my course of treatments is over, will the hair ever come back?
The hair follicles that have been permanently disabled will not grow again. There will be some dormant hair follicles in the skin at time of treatment and these may grow at a later stage. Some clients return for a maintenance treatment after 6 months to 2 years whilst others do not require this. It depends on the individual hair growth and the effect you are happy with.

IPL Photo Rejuvenation:

Photo rejuvenation is performed by gently delivering light energy to specific areas through a special hand-piece. These specific areas then absorb this light energy and the production of collagen is stimulated. Collagen helps soften the appearance of aging skin. As the collagen forms, the fine lines and wrinkles in the targeted areas are decreased. Photo rejuvenation can even reduce the redness associated with rosacea (a chronic form of acne). The procedures take only 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the amount of areas that need to be treated. So an individual can take their lunch break, have their treatment done, and come back looking younger and healthier. As with hair removal, the IPL targets the pigment in the brown or red area being treated. Pigmented lesions will darken initially and may form a crust but will fade within 10 to 14 days. Red areas and broken capillaries may blanch immediately or otherwise darken to a purple hue that also fades within 10 to 14 days.

Who is an ideal candidate for Photo Rejuvenation?
Generally ideal candidates for Photo Rejuvenation are people that have:

This is only some of the criteria the surgeon would use to determine if you are an ideal candidate for photo rejuvenation. If you want to know if you are an ideal candidate, ask for a consultation with your physician.

Are there any risks or complications involved?
There are no known possible risks involved with photo rejuvenation and the procedure has proven to be safe. Unlike facial plastic surgery, there is no actual pain experienced during the procedure. Most patients have compared the procedure to feel like a rubber band snapping on the skin. The only marks shown from the procedure will be some redness or bruising, which will eventually fade away.

Recovery:
There is practically no post-operative discomfort, with the exception of some redness or bruising. A flushed appearance may also be present. These symptoms will soon fade away and what’s left is a younger looking skin. The therapist may provide some instructions for you to follow after each treatment; these instructions may include avoiding certain skin cleansers or using sunscreen. In order to achieve the best results, follow the therapist’s instructions.

Will I have to repeat this procedure?
During the first treatment, there is a significant change in the skin’s appearance. However, these improvements will steadily increase with each visit. To achieve optimal results, a series of three to five treatments may be needed. This all depends on how many treatments are needed and the severity of the area. On the plus side, these treatments only take about a half an hour out of your day. So multiple procedures will not take up too much of your time.

What results will I expect after undergoing Photo Rejuvenation?
Once the final results of the treatments are revealed the individual should notice one or more of the following:

Photo Facial™ is a 2-6 treatment program that dramatically eliminates signs of sun damage, aging, and Rosacea, on the face and neck.  We also see great results on the arms, hands and chest.  

AHA – Glycolic acid key points

Why are we using Bulgarian Rose Otto for our signature treatments?

Pure rose oil is made in several countries. Bulgarian steam distilled pure rose oil is number one in the world for several reasons. For over 300 years the Bulgarians have been refining rose oil production. Their climate is such that the rose petals do not over produce wax for protection from the rays of the sun. In other climates, harsh or too little sun, will produce inferior rose petals that contain either too much or too little wax. Other environmental factors, such as soil and water delivery, botany skills combined with time honoured cultivation techniques, ensure prime rose petals for production. One other factor ensuring top quality Bulgarian Rose Oil is the implementation of government standards to ensure the rose oil composition is always within certain quality control parameters.

For centuries the rose has been associated with feminine beauty and hence skin care. Bulgarian pure rose oil is a top note essential oil. Its frequency is extremely high and rapid. Rose oil has the highest frequency (320 Hertz) of all the essential oils on the planet. This in itself is an important factor. It means that the fragrant molecules of the rose oil, on inhalation or application, are able to quickly penetrate and travel the infinitesimal pathways of the body, rapidly energising every cell, bringing balance, harmony and beauty to the body.

 

Rose Oil Frequency

Frequency is defined as a measurable rate of electrical energy flow that is constant between any two points. Everything has an electrical frequency, and essential oils contain frequencies that are several times greater than the frequencies of herbs and foods.

Rose Oil frequency is extremely high and rapid. Rose oil has the highest frequency (320 Hertz) of all the essential oils on the planet. This in itself is an important factor. It means that the fragrant molecules of the rose oil, on inhalation or application, are able to quickly penetrate and travel the infinitesimal pathways of the body, rapidly energising every cell, bringing balance, harmony and beauty to the body.

Rose essential oil has a long history in folk remedies, especially in the area of skin care. It is suitable for all skin types, but it is especially valuable for dry, sensitive or aging skins. It has a tonic and astringent effect on the capillaries just below the skin surface, which makes it useful in diminishing the redness caused by enlarged capillaries. It is important to ensure that the product you use contains the genuine rose essential oil. Many manufacturers label their products containing rose essence but it could be synthetic. Synthetic rose ingredients have no therapeutic value at all! Remember, with authentic rose otto, a little goes a long way.

A few drops of our high quality Rose Oil (Rose Otto) will - Enliven: romance, auras, chakras, love, libido, sensuality, happiness. Enhance: inner vision, angelic connection, clairvoyance, relationships, meditation, devotion. Assist with: skin care, easing grief, encouraging contentment, dissipating guilt, liver detoxing, opening the heart, balancing the female reproduction system, healing. Ease: menstrual tension, frigidity, hangovers, depression, symptoms of menopause. Bring: harmony, comfort, calmness, purity, patience, luck and joy

What is Botox?

When injected into a muscle:

How can I be sure I am not receiving a substitute product?
You may wish to ask your doctor to confirm that Botox is the product he/she is using. Botox is packaged in a glass vial with a blue lid labelled as Botox and an Allergan hologram on the label.

Why it is also called Vistabel?
VISTABEL is the brand name approved in the UK for the treatment of glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows). Injectors may sometimes use the name VISTABEL when they are discussing the treatment with BOTOX because the two products contain exactly the same active ingredient and are supplied by the same company, Allergan.

Are BOTOX / VISTABEL safe?
BOTOX / VISTABEL have an excellent safety profile.
BOTOX is used in a variety of therapeutic areas. It is one of the few treatments that can be given to children over two years of age to treat Cerebral Palsy – Botox helps them to walk!
BOTOX has been actively used for over 10 years in tens of thousands of patients worldwide.
BOTOX has US FDA and European license approval.

How does BOTOX work?
A tiny amount of BOTOX is injected into the hyperactive muscles. These repeated contractions cause skin to fracture. Fine lines start to appear. BOTOX blocks the nerve impulse from reaching these muscles. The muscle simply relaxes or “goes to sleep”. This relaxation enables the skin to relax and heal and the lines smooth away.

What happens during BOTOX treatment?
Your Doctor will ask you to frown or smile to assess your muscle movement. Then determine the injection site to achieve the best results for you. BOTOX is then administered by several tiny injections. Feels like a pin prick. No anaesthetic is required. You can return to work or day to day activities immediately.

How long does it take?
Generally, after the initial consultation, the treatment only takes about 15 minutes. The benefit is that there is no recovery time – you can go back to work or whatever you were doing!

Are there any side effects from a BOTOX treatment?
Some patients experience a slight temporary bruising at the injection site. This may be covered up with make up. In some cases, the toxin can migrate and cause temporary weakness to nearby small muscles. In rare cases there can be drooping of an eyelid or asymmetry of facial expression. The risk of any side effect depends upon the muscles injected. Your doctor will discuss this with you in detail before the treatment. Because the effects of Botulinum Toxin are completely reversible, any side effects are temporary, lasting only a few weeks.
If side effects occur, they are:

When does BOTOX start to work?
From day 2 in some patients through to 14 days to see the full effect.

How long will the effect last?
Results can last from 3 to 4 months following treatment.
Subsequent BOTOX treatments can last much longer.
Varies from person to person.

Will BOTOX work for me?
The majority of patients treated by an experienced injector are satisfied with the results of their BOTOX treatment.

Will my lines look worse if I do not continue my treatment?
Should you discontinue treatment, your lines will gradually revert to their pre-treatment appearance.

Will BOTOX affect my whole face?
BOTOX only relaxes the muscle it is injected into. It is used in minuscule quantities to treat facial lines. Appropriate injections of BOTOX will ensure you still have natural facial expression.

What is the difference between Botox and fillers?
Frown lines are caused by overactive facial muscles. Fillers correct the wrinkle by adding volume around the muscle with intradermal injections. BOTOX is intramuscular blocking the chemicals that cause facial muscles to contract, thereby relaxing them. BOTOX is the only product of its type that affects the muscles that cause wrinkles between the brows.

Who can inject BOTOX?

BOTOX should only be injected by an experienced injector who can make sure that the correct amount is injected in precisely the right places. In this way the desired result with a natural look can be achieved.

AFTER TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR Botox Injections:
1. Refrain from touching the treated area for 3-4 hours so Botox remains in position.
2. Remain upright for 6 hours.
3. Repeatedly tense treated muscle groups for 3-4 hours after treatment, as toxin works better in active muscles.
4. Exercise and alcohol should be avoided for 48 hours.
5. You may develop a slight headache following treatment. You may take paracetamol.
6. Arnica cream can be applied to any bruising

Restylane facts

Are the injections painful?
For wrinkle treatment topical anaesthetic ream can be applied. Some people find no pain relief necessary. For treatment around the mouth and lips local anaesthetic injections can be used which allow the treatment to be pain free and comfortable.

How long does it take for the treatments to work?
The procedure takes about 10-20 minutes and the results are instant.

What can and can't I do after the treatment?
You can carry on life as normal as any redness can be covered with makeup. You should leave the treated area alone for 48 hours to let it settle. It is advisable to not have a facial or similar treatment that may disturb the products or expose the newly treated areas to strong sunlight for 2-3 days.

How long does the treatment last for?
For about 6-9 months.

How often will I need to top up?
Most patients have top ups when they feel the effect is starting to wear off i.e. anytime between 6 and 12 months.

Are there any side effects?
After the treatment there may be some redness and minimal swelling which normally settles in 1-2 days. Very occasionally patients can suffer some bruising at the injection site.
Swelling normally settles in 1-2 days after injection in the skin and within a week after injection to the lips.

Who is suitable for these treatments?
Almost everyone apart from those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What happens if I do not have a top up?
Correction of the wrinkles and the enhanced lip effect will subside gradually until your skin looks like it did before the treatment.

Are there any long term problems?
No because it is completely natural and over time can be completely broken down by the body.

Are the injections painful?
Not really. But if you feel discomfort we are able to use local anaesthetic injections as we have a doctor performing the treatment, which allow the treatment to be painfree and comfortable.

Can it be used with brow freezing procedures?
Yes, sometimes to create the best effect they can be used together.
Would you have Restylane treatment yourself ?
Yes I would. I have had Restylane treatment for my nasolabial (nose to mouth) lines and lip enhancement of my upper lip. The end result was a natural improvement that I was very happy with.

AFTER TREATMENT WITH RESTYLANE INSTRUCTIONS
1. Immediately after treatment there may be slight redness, swelling and an itching sensation in the treated area. This is a normal result of the injection.
2. Avoid touching area for 6 hours after treatment. Light make-up can then be applied.
3. Do not expose treated area to intense heat (e.g. solaruim and sunbathing) or extreme cold.
4. If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that needle puntcture could contribute to another eruption. However taking a course of Zovirax or Aciclovir tablets prior to the day of treatment can reduce the chances of this occurring.
5. After the initail treatment of wrinkles most patients choose to have follow up treatment in 6 - 12 months.
6. Lips normally need a retreatment after 6 months.
7. You can repeat the procedure as often as you like, depending on the degree of improvement required.
8. A top up treatment within 2 - 4 weeks of the initial treatment may be required to achieve optimal results. This normally requires a smaller amount of product.